News Summary
LinksDAO is set to acquire Hillcrest Country Club, a historic gem designed by Donald Ross in 1915. With a $30 million renovation budget, it aims to transform the club into a premier golf destination by spring 2026, enhancing its charm and accessibility for golf enthusiasts.
LinksDAO Takes On a Bold New Adventure in Golf
Exciting news is on the horizon for golf enthusiasts! LinksDAO, a modern and innovative group focused on making golf more accessible, is set to acquire the historic Hillcrest Country Club. This treasured gem, designed by the renowned golf course architect Donald Ross back in 1915, boasts a reputation as one of the second-oldest golf clubs in its region and is about to undergo a thrilling transformation with a whopping $30 million renovation budget!
A Slice of History
Previously known for its lush greens and charming atmosphere, Hillcrest Country Club has been captivating golfers for years. Since its most recent operations as a public course in 2023, this club has hosted incredible events in the past, including the prestigious 1922 Western Amateur and a trio of PGA Tour Kansas City Open Invitational events during the 1950s. Its roots run deep in the local golfing community, making this renovation all the more significant.
The Visionaries Behind the Project
At the helm of this groundbreaking initiative are CEO Jim Daily and COO Mike Dudas, who founded LinksDAO in 2021. Their quick and strategic fundraising efforts raised over $12 million in just three weeks, showcasing the immense interest and support for making golf more inclusive. With their first U.S. project on the table, they are determined to make Hillcrest Country Club a premier golf destination.
What’s in Store?
Renowned golf course architect Tripp Davis, known for his exceptional work on distinguished courses like Oak Tree National, Atlanta Athletic Club, and even Augusta Country Club, will oversee the renovation. The plan includes a host of exciting changes such as:
- Clearing out overgrown trees
- Constructing a brand new clubhouse
- Modernizing the layout to elevate the course’s potential to the top 100 in the nation
Scenic Views Await
The picturesque site spreads over 135 acres atop a high point, promising breathtaking views of downtown once the trees are cleared away. Golfers might soon find themselves teeing off with a stunning backdrop that enhances their experience on the course.
Timeline for Completion
The grand transformation is set to be completed by Spring 2026, and Tripp Davis has already started laying down the groundwork for the revamped layout. Local golf enthusiasts can look forward to memberships that not only open the door to this history-laden course but also welcome LinksDAO members, with the prospect of attracting notable athletes from the NFL and MLB.
Keeping Tradition Alive
While Hillcrest has never quite secured a spot in Golf Digest’s list of America’s 100 Greatest Courses, it carries a charm and heritage that can’t be overlooked. Interestingly, Donald Ross once predicted that this area would have the world’s finest course, making this renovation a personal mission to bring that vision to life.
More than One Hillcrest
In addition to the excitement brewing at the Hillcrest Country Club, there are ongoing grand renovations planned for the Hillcrest Golf Club in Moose Jaw, which is separate from LinksDAO’s endeavors. This ambitious effort is also backed by strong member support and will focus on modernizing its infrastructure and enhancing the overall play experience.
Looking Ahead
The future is bright for both Hillcrest Country Club and Hillcrest Golf Club in Moose Jaw. With overwhelming member approval and innovative plans for rejuvenation, these clubs aim to not only preserve the rich history of golf but also to pave the way for an exciting future. So gear up, because a new chapter in golfing history is just around the corner!
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Additional Resources
- Golf Digest: LinksDAO to Transform Historic Hillcrest Country Club
- Moose Jaw Today: Hillcrest Golf Club Open House
- Moose Jaw Today: Hillcrest Golf Club Passes Master Plan
- Wikipedia: Golf
- Golf Digest: America’s Best New Courses 2021
